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History

Central Carolina Community Foundation was officially incorporated on September 25, 1984, to provide stewardship for permanent endowments that enhance the lives of citizens in the Midlands. Several business leaders were involved in the process of establishing the Foundation including Arthur M. Bjontegard, John G. Boatwright, J. Willis Cantey, John L. Heins, Charles W. Knowlton, David W. Robinson, Marshall A. Shearouse and G. Cameron Todd.

The Foundation began in 1984 with minimal assets, a voluntary staff and a great vision.

Cameron Todd served as the Foundation's first president and asked Marshall Shearouse to serve as the volunteer executive director. Marshall brought his extensive experience as a bank trust officer and trustee of other foundations to the Community Foundation.

By 1987, the board determined that a full-time, paid executive director was needed to ensure that the Foundation met its growth potential, and Jo Mengedoht Cox was hired. In 1988, Evan and Cindy Nord made a $1 million challenge gift to the Foundation to encourage others in the community to give. The Nord’s challenge helped raise an additional million dollars which served as an early catalyst to growth.

With a goal to make a difference in the Midlands community, the Foundation has used its platform to spearhead initiatives with other organizations, award grants, and partner with donors in their giving. Since our establishment from a $25,000 investment, the Foundation has grown to oversee more than $100 million in assets.

The first grants were awarded 1989 — 17 grants totaling $100,000. Last year we awarded more than $13 million through hundreds of grants and scholarships. Over the last quarter century, the Foundation has invested more than $91 million into the community thanks to the generosity and trust of our donors.